The Blanche River Health Foundation (BRHF) is proud to announce the launch of the Grateful Hearts Program, an initiative designed to empower individuals near and far to express their gratitude for Blanche River Health (BRH) team members. Building on the success of the Thankful Thursdays program, this fundraiser provides a new way to make a lasting difference.

Through the Grateful Hearts Program, supporters can honour BRH staff and volunteers who have made a meaningful impact in their healthcare journey by making donations. These contributions directly benefit the hospitals in Englehart and Kirkland Lake, helping to fund essential equipment and facility upgrades that improve patient care.

“People often ask us what more they can do to show their gratitude,” said Samantha Saudino, BRH Vice President, Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Officer. “The Grateful Hearts Program answers that question by turning appreciation into action, creating a ripple effect of care and support for our staff and patients.”

Thankful Thursdays, launched in early 2025, has been an inspiring platform for recognizing the incredible contributions of healthcare staff. Some individuals have expressed their thanks through heartfelt gestures like custom gifts, including hand-painted rocks. The Grateful Hearts Program builds on this foundation by offering an enduring way to give back while answering the question of “how can I show my gratitude.”

“Every donation through the Grateful Hearts Program helps us strengthen healthcare services for our communities while honouring the staff and volunteers who serve our patients,” said Mitch Moreau, BRHF Board Director. “It’s a tangible reminder of the strong bond between our hospitals and the people we serve.”

How It Works

1. Share Your Gratitude: Submit the name of the BRH caregiver or team member/team who made a difference (your “tribute”) through our online form at grateful.brhfoundation.ca or fill out a donation form available at Central Registry of both BRH hospitals.
2. Make a Tribute Gift: Include a donation of any amount - every dollar helps support critical healthcare initiatives. 
3. Celebrate Together: We’ll recognize your honoree with a personalized certificate and pin, and share their story of care on our social media, with their manager and team, and the hospital leadership team.

Each gift honours the dedication of team members while contributing to the future of healthcare in the region. For more information about the Grateful Hearts Program or to make a donation visit grateful.brhfoundation.ca.

About Blanche River Health Foundation

The Blanche River Health Foundation raises funds for equipment and capital projects at the Blanche River Health hospitals in Englehart and Kirkland Lake. With limited government funding, the hospitals rely on people’s generosity to modernize facilities, improve patient care, and advance its mission to make healthcare work for you. Governed by a volunteer board of directors, the Foundation plays a vital role in ensuring essential improvements are made possible.

To continue supporting BRH, please consider donating to the BRH Foundation via:

• Cheque: Blanche River Health Foundation, 145 Government Road East, Kirkland Lake, Ontario P2N 3P4
• Online: Visit brhfoundation.ca
• Your Estate Planner: Include the Foundation in your will through planned giving: legacy.brhfoundation.ca
• Lottery Tickets: Purchase Split the Pot tickets at splitthepot.ca
• Grateful Hearts Program: Honour a caregiver or staff member who made a difference by donating through grateful.brhfoundation.ca

Visit brhfoundation.ca to learn more or to donate.